Osage Orange, Hedgeapple (Maclura pomifera)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Tree

Osage Orange, Hedgeapple
Maclura pomifera

Osage Orange form in winter
Osage Orange form in winter
 
Features
Yellow fall color; shredding gray bark exposes orange inner bark giving mild winter interest. 
 
Culture
Full sun; tolerates both wet and dry sites; pH adaptable; tolerates wind and salt. 
 
Cultivars
  • 'Double O'-male (no fruit), relatively few thorns.
  • 'White Shield'-very few thorns.
  • 'Wichita'- male (no fruit), very few thorns.
 
 
Mature Height
35-50 Feet
 
Size
Medium
 
 
Mature Form
Rounded, irregular crown and a short trunk. 
 
Native To:
United States 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
5 - 9 
 
Soil Conditions
Dry
Moist, Well-Drained
Wet
 
 
Tolerance
Alkaline Soil
Dry Sites
Salt
Wet Sites
Wind
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
 
 
Uses
Screen
Shade
Wind Break
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
 
 
Fall Foliage Color
Yellow
 
 
Pests and Problems
 
Additional Notes
The large, grapefruit-sized fruit are a nuisance; thorny branches may also be a problem; this tree is best used in rural areas as a hedgerow, wind break or barrier.

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic